BMW Reveals i3 Coupe Concept

BMW's range of electric concepts grows by one more body-style in LA before the EVs start hitting showrooms.

BMW's i family of electric cars hasn't even hit the market yet, but already the Bavarian automaker is presenting new concepts. Following the i3, i8 and i8 Roadster concepts comes the new i3 Coupe, which BMW has just released ahead of its unveiling at the LA Auto Show this week. The orange electric hatchback is built out of carbon fiber and packs an electric motor with 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, driven by a lithium-ion battery pack mounted low inside the show car for an optimal center of gravity.

The electric powertrain drives the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission. While the new coupe concept rides on the same wheelbase as the four-door i3, the roof is chopped down and the windshield is more steeply raked. Sustainable leather, wood and wool adorn the conceptual cabin. Just which of these elements make it to production when BMW finally starts delivery of its electric line-up remains to be seen, but with the debut of the new i3 Coupe, there's no lack of concepts to keep our interests piqued.